Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is behaviors used by one person to control another. Domestic violence takes many forms and can happen all the time or once in awhile.

Abuse occurs when behaviors are used to establish and maintain power and control over another person. Unfortunately, domestic violence happens to people of every age, race, gender, and socioeconomic group.

EVERYONE has the right to be safe and treated with respect. If you are experiencing domestic violence please remember…YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

To better understand your situation, it can be helpful to talk with someone who understands. AVAIL staff are available to talk in our office or any safe place you are comfortable with. We have staff on-call 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Examples of Domestic Violence

Name-calling or put downs

Denying contact with family/friends

Withholding money

Preventing employment

Acts of physical violence

Threats of physical violence

Sexual assault

Stalking

Intimidation

Getting Ready to Leave?

If you are in an abusive relationship and want to leave, safety should be your first concern. If there is an immediate threat to your safety, CALL 911 AND/OR LEAVE IMMEDIATELY! If you have time to prepare before you leave, get a bag together that you can easily grab on your way out.